Sarasota County is continuing the Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study for the future replacement of the historic Blackburn Point Bridge, which connects Casey Key to the mainland. The existing swing bridge, originally constructed in 1926, has served the community for nearly a century but no longer meets current transportation, safety, and operational needs.
The purpose of the study is to evaluate replacement alternatives that improve safety for motorists, pedestrians, cyclists, and boaters while considering environmental impacts, community character, navigation, and historic preservation. Alternatives under review include both one-lane and two-lane bridge concepts, with a higher bridge clearance intended to reduce the number of bridge openings and improve marine traffic flow. A “no-build” alternative is also being evaluated as part of the federal review process.
Sarasota County has held multiple public meetings to gather community input throughout the planning process. A formal public hearing before the Sarasota County Commission is anticipated following completion of the PD&E Study, at which time the County will determine the preferred bridge alternative.
It is important to note that the project is currently in the planning, design, and environmental review phase. While funding has been allocated for planning and design, construction funding has not yet been identified in the County’s current Capital Improvement Program.
